I belive this is what it feels like when a childhood dream comes true

Sir David in NETFLIX's documentary called "A Life on Our Planet"

Humanity perhaps has always felt the need to find or create heroes—figures we can look up to, follow, respect, and draw inspiration from, through time and space. Heroes who give us strength, whether in our daily lives or in the work we dedicate ourselves to. 

Those who know me well won’t be surprised when I say that David Attenborough has always been one of those people for me.

Why? I’ve been reflecting on that question for years, trying to put it into words. His name has definitely resonated with me since I can remember. I’d see Attenborough books or VHS tapes on the shelf or hear his name mentioned in conversation. Funny as it sounds, even watching Jurassic Park, we would comment, “Look, that’s David Attenborough’s brother, Richard”(—the actor who played John Hammond in the film). His work was a reference point in my family in many ways—and it’s no surprise. My parents are both biologists, and two of my siblings followed that same path. However I chose a completely different route and spent over ten years as an artist.

But environmentalism and nature’s beauty have always held a special place in my heart. For me, nature has always represented something magnificent and demanding of deep respect—a source of calm and a place to feel at home. 

After each of Attenborugh's nature documentary, I was struck by just how much we share with the natural world. There is, after all, nothing new under the sun. Whether it’s social behavior, intrigue, courtship, communication, sulking, playfulness, or the use of tools, countless other species have 'invented' these things too. This understanding brings me a sense of unity and humility. Humanity isn’t as unique as we might think. And I hope that this isn’t just anthropomorphism speaking. ;) 

Life on Earth documentary series, 1979

So, I followed Attenborough’s adventures closely, whether through books or documentaries, always amazed by the quality, passion, and radiant love for the subject that flowed from every frame and every word. To have lived such a rich, long life and been able to share so much of it with the world is an enviable gift—one that few are granted.

This awareness was perhaps one of the reasons that led me to change careers and become a sustainability specialist, focusing my efforts on somehow preserving the very world he’s spent a lifetime bringing closer to all of us. 

A few weeks ago, I just wanted to thank him for this, so I sent him a regular, old fashioned letter. 

And, as if by some miracle, just days later, his response appeared in my mailbox. 

So, once again, thank you, Sir David. The world would be undoubtedly less without you. I eagerly look forward to any future work you may share with us.